How Long to Cook Pork Tenderloin: A Guide to Perfectly Cooked Pork
Pork tenderloin, known for its leanness and delicate flavor, is a popular choice for weeknight dinners and special occasions. However, its lean nature means it can easily become dry if overcooked. Mastering the art of cooking pork tenderloin hinges on understanding the ideal cooking time and temperature. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to achieve juicy, flavorful perfection every time.
Understanding Cooking Time Variables
The time it takes to cook a pork tenderloin depends on several factors:
- Size of the Tenderloin: Larger tenderloins naturally require longer cooking times than smaller ones.
- Cooking Method: Different methods, such as roasting, pan-searing, grilling, or using a slow cooker, all affect cooking time.
- Desired Doneness: Whether you prefer your pork tenderloin medium-rare, medium, or well-done will significantly impact cooking time.
Cooking Time Chart: A Quick Reference
This chart provides approximate cooking times for various cooking methods and desired levels of doneness. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The internal temperature is the most reliable indicator of doneness.
| Cooking Method | Size (lbs) | Medium-Rare (145°F) | Medium (150°F) | Medium-Well (155°F) | Well-Done (160°F) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oven Roasting | 1-1.5 | 20-25 minutes | 25-30 minutes | 30-35 minutes | 35-40 minutes |
| 1.5-2 | 25-30 minutes | 30-35 minutes | 35-40 minutes | 40-45 minutes | |
| Pan-Searing | 1-1.5 | 10-12 minutes per side | 12-15 minutes per side | 15-18 minutes per side | 18-20 minutes per side |
| Grilling | 1-1.5 | 10-12 minutes per side | 12-15 minutes per side | 15-18 minutes per side | 18-20 minutes per side |
| Slow Cooker | 1-1.5 | 3-4 hours on low | 2-3 hours on low | 2.5-3.5 hours on low | 3-4 hours on low |
Note: These are estimates. Thicker sections of the tenderloin might need a little extra time.
Using a Meat Thermometer: The Key to Success
A meat thermometer is your best friend when cooking pork tenderloin. It eliminates guesswork and ensures your pork reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) as recommended by the USDA, while remaining juicy. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin to get an accurate reading.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Pork Tenderloin
- Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the pork tenderloin to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When pan-searing or grilling, ensure there's enough space between the tenderloin and the pan to allow for proper browning and even cooking.
- Brining or Marinating: Brining or marinating the tenderloin beforehand helps to retain moisture and add flavor.
- Seasoning: Don't be shy with the seasoning! Pork tenderloin takes well to herbs, spices, and garlic.
By following these tips and using a meat thermometer, you'll consistently produce perfectly cooked pork tenderloin that is both juicy and delicious. Enjoy!
